Lately, your favorite local Houston newborn photographer has been taking her four kids to swimming lessons daily! A few years ago we had started with my oldest, but we didn't take it seriously. This year, I mean business. I have heard too many scary stories.
Trigger warning: One in particular stays with me--a grandmother who was inflicted with terminal cancer had shared that her she had lost her toddler grandson to drowning. She was looking forward to seeing him again.Â
END Trigger
Anyways, our kids are attending Houston Swim Club, and they just finished the required 9 days required intensive program. I have noticed such a huge difference in their water comfort and abilities. I am seriously amazed! So amazed that I have signed up for twice a week for my three oldest beginning next week. My oldest has probably struggled the most so far, but I know he's working so hard. It's just that fear of water has really taken a hold of him. Yesterday though, while his instructor held him, and with him at his side, he picked up a ring at the floor of the pool and brought it up. I am so proud of him! They are even enjoying swimming lessons now. I admit they didn't at first. New things can be scary. On day 1, my oldest asked me, "when will we stop these swimming lessons?" I answered promptly, "Until you are water safe and you can swim."
Daily swimming lessons have not exactly been easy on me though. Rushing to get there by 9 am, all dressed and ready... then my toddler has to be carried to the instructor while kicking and screaming. Then for the first 10 minutes, acting boneless. Eventually the instructor gets a few smiles, and finally he's all ears. Changing swim diapers, while holding a squishy 9 month old in one arm. Forgetting and leaving a normal diaper over a swim diaper (aahh, I'm so sorry HSC!) Showering them all. Throwing it all into the wash because I don't have 9 swimsuits for each. Typical first world, mom problems y'all. Has it been worth it? Absolutely.
I do wish that swimming lessons were part of a school curriculum though. Not everyone has access for various reasons.
Did you know that it's safe to take your newborn into the pool? I had no idea! They do recommend waiting at least six weeks after birth for mama though to prevent infection.
